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The ABCs of Helping People in High‑Control Groups
Authoritarianism
Boundary Crossing
Control, Coercion and Cults
Hosted by:
Sarah Johnson, LPCC & Suzanne Case, LSW
Format:
In person
Schedule:
Thursdays 6p-7:30pm for 8 weeks (June 11-August 6) **see details below**
Address:
6175 Memorial Dr.
Dublin, OH 43017
Cost:
$100 per session or $800 total. Sign up before May 1 to receive $100 off!
Group Description
If someone you love is involved in a high-control group or cult, you don't have to navigate it alone. This structured support group gives you the knowledge, skills, and community to respond with clarity and compassion.
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Watching a loved one become increasingly controlled by a group — whether religious, political, or otherwise — is one of the most disorienting and heartbreaking experiences someone can face. This 8-week group was designed specifically for adults who are struggling to know how to reach or connect with someone they love who is in a high-control group or cult. You will leave each session with practical tools, deeper understanding, and a community of people who truly get it.
Weekly Schedule & Topics Covered
June 11, 2026
June 18, 2026
June 25, 2026
July 9, 2026
July 16, 2026
July 23, 2026
July 30, 2026
August 6, 2026
Week 1: Laying the Groundwork
Introductions, group rules, establishing safety, list of resources, defining terms.
Week 2: Red Flags & Vulnerabilities
BITE model, influence continuum, how to identify a high control group, common control methods.
Week 3: Symptoms to Monitor in Loved Ones
C-PTSD, symptoms of involvement, changes you might notice, behavioral concerns, developmental milestones
Week 4: Managing Your Anxiety and Grief
Coping skills, operating from a place of security, managing panic, practicing patience, embracing grief.
Week 5: SIA Part 1 - Preparing for Action
Assembling a support team, assessing the situation and communication principles.
Week 6: SIA Part 2 - Strategic Intervention
Questions to ask, addressing phobias of leaving, interacting with the cult identity.
Week 7: Being a Support When They Leave
Active listening skills, facing the aftermath, modeling humility, what to expect.
Week 8: Hope for the Future, Group Reflection, Q&A
Final conclusions, moving forward, open Q&A
Group Facilitators
Informed. Experienced. Passionate.
How to Sign Up
1
Fill out your intake form
Tell us a little about your situation and what brings you here. Whether your loved one is currently involved in a high-control group or you're still piecing things together, this form helps us understand where you're at so we can make sure this group is the right fit for your family.
2
We'll give you a call
Once we receive your form, a facilitator will reach out for a brief, confidential phone call. This is a chance to ask questions and learn more about the 8-week program. We'll also use this time to make sure the group is the right fit for your specific situation — and if it isn't, we'll connect you with other resources that may be a better match. Either way, you won't leave the call without support.
3
Secure your spot
Ready to take the next step? We'll get you registered and send everything you need to get started. Group size is kept small to create a safe, trusting environment for all participants, so we encourage you to reserve your place as soon as you're ready. We look forward to supporting you.
FAQ
How is this different from individual therapy?
Individual therapy focuses on your personal healing in a private, one-on-one setting. This group is different — it's a structured, educational experience built specifically around helping a loved one in a high-control group, with a community of people who truly understand what you're going through.
This group is not a replacement for individual therapy, and many participants find the two complement each other well. If you feel you'd benefit from additional one-on-one support, we're happy to point you in the right direction.
Is this group offered in-person, online, or both?
This group is currently offered in-person only. That said, we understand that things come up. If you're sick or unable to attend in person for a session, we may be able to accommodate you joining virtually to listen in — though active participation wouldn't be possible in that format.
We're hoping to offer this group again in the future and are exploring the possibility of a virtual option down the road, so stay tuned!
How much does it cost, and is there a payment plan?
The group is $800 for all 8 sessions ($100 per session). If you register by May 1st, you'll receive an early bird discount of $100 off, bringing your total to $700.
Payment is due in full at the time of registration. We accept cash, check, and credit card — whichever is most convenient for you. Payment plans are not available at this time.
Do I have to commit to all 8 weeks?
Yes — each week builds on the last, so attending the full program gives you the most complete experience. Consistent attendance also helps build trust within the group, which makes the conversations richer and more meaningful for everyone.
That said, we completely understand that life gets in the way sometimes. If an emergency, illness, or unexpected obligation comes up, just let us know. All we ask is that you come in intending to attend all 8 sessions and that you communicate with us if something changes.
Is there a waitlist if the group is full?
Yes! If the group is full by the time you apply, we'll add you to our waitlist and reach out as soon as a spot opens up. Being on the waitlist also means you'll be first to know when we open registration for our next group. We encourage you to sign up even if you're worried about availability — we'd love to have you.